Hardware Change & Windows reactivation query

Recently, I'm a bit confused about PC's hardware... I want to learn more...

If I want to change the hardware (processor, sound card, video card, motherboard, hard disk, etc) in my CPU, does that mean that I have to re-install the operating system? (My PC is using Windows XP, service pack 3)

For a start what you refer to as the processor is the CPU - Central Processing Unit. The CPU is the main chip on the the motherboard, the big one with a fan and heat-sink attached to it. The case with all the components in it is a computer.

Changing the motherboard and CPU will almost certainly require Windows XP to be reinstalled and reactivated. How you do that and even if it can be done depends on what type a Windows XP you have. If you have a retail version then it should not be a problem. It may require a phone call to Microsoft.

If you have an OEM version that came with a new computer then you wont be able to. The OS is tied to the hardware it came with.

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